Good Harbor

Near Good Harbor Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of beers and cocktails, serving comfort food and small plates. Another popular spot is Pegtown Station, known for its casual dining experience with pizza and breakfast options. For Italian cuisine, Trattoria Funistrada provides an upscale dining experience with a notable wine list. Additionally, Market 22 offers a variety of meals, including breakfast and lunch, in a casual setting.

These restaurants cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have a range of options to enjoy local flavors and hospitality. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a more formal dining experience, there's something for everyone near Good Harbor Beach.

For accommodations near Good Harbor Beach, The Homestead is a top choice, offering a luxurious resort experience with a spa, pools, and sports facilities. Another option is the Bayshore Resort in Traverse City, which provides traditional rooms with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. The Maple Lane Resort offers a quaint, historic motel experience with free WiFi. For a more exclusive stay, the LeBear Luxury Residential Club provides elegant suites with valet services and a spa.

These hotels and resorts offer a range of amenities and atmospheres, from luxury to cozy, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect place to stay during their visit to Good Harbor Beach.

Good Harbor Beach offers basic amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There are restrooms available, including an accessible vault toilet, and picnic tables near the parking lot. However, the beach lacks showers and extensive food options, so visitors should plan accordingly. The area is well-suited for those looking for a more natural and less crowded beach experience.

The beach allows leashed pets to the right of CR 651, making it partially dog-friendly. While there are no beach wheelchairs available, recommendations have been made to improve accessibility in the future. The scenic surroundings and nearby attractions make up for the limited amenities, providing a unique and peaceful experience for visitors.

Good Harbor Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Swimming is a popular pastime due to the clear waters and gentle waves. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also favored, with the beach providing easy carry-in access for these watercraft. Fishing is another activity that attracts visitors, thanks to the rich waters of Lake Michigan.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, hiking trails are available nearby, offering scenic views and opportunities to connect with nature. The beach itself is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, especially during the stunning sunsets. While it's not suitable for surfing, the calm waters make it perfect for families and beginners looking to enjoy water activities.

Good Harbor Beach has some accessibility features but lacks comprehensive disability access. There is an accessible vault toilet available, and the parking area is paved, providing a smooth path to the beach. However, the beach itself is made of soft sand, which can be challenging for wheelchairs. Recommendations have been made to improve accessibility by providing beach wheelchairs designed to navigate soft sand, but these are not currently available.

Visitors with disabilities may face challenges accessing certain areas of the beach and surrounding amenities. While some picnic tables and restrooms are accessible, the overall infrastructure could be improved to better accommodate visitors with mobility needs.

Parking at Good Harbor Beach is convenient and free, with a designated parking lot available near the beach entrance. Additional parking options are available along the roadside, providing ample space for visitors. The proximity of the parking area to the beach is a significant advantage, as it allows for easy access to the shoreline. However, spaces can be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.

The parking area is paved, ensuring a smooth and accessible path to the beach. This setup makes it easy for visitors to transport kayaks or paddleboards to the water's edge, enhancing the overall beach experience.

Good Harbor Beach is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which was named the 'Most Beautiful Place in America' by Good Morning America in 2011. The beach itself has a rich history, being part of the historic village of Good Harbor, which once included a sawmill and dock. Today, remnants of this village can still be seen near the shore.

The area is also known for its unique wildlife, including the piping plover, a threatened species that breeds in the spring. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and scenic views of nearby landmarks like Pyramid Point and the Whaleback. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes Good Harbor Beach a fascinating destination.

Good Harbor Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The Sleeping Bear Dunes, a prominent feature of the area, offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The Glen Arbor Arts Center is another nearby attraction, showcasing local art and hosting events. Visitors can also explore the remnants of the historic village of Good Harbor, which add a touch of history to the area.

For nature enthusiasts, the piping plover nesting areas and the scenic overlooks of Pyramid Point and the Whaleback are must-visit spots. The beach's proximity to these natural wonders makes it an ideal base for exploring the broader Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.